Assessment of early age properties of cementitious system through isopropanol–water replacement in the mixing water

In this study, a new method to assess early properties of cementitious materials by water-solvent replacement is investigated. Isopropanol was used to replace a part of mixing water of binder paste, limiting the maximum degree of hydration it can achieve. Results of four independent methods (calorimetry, thermo-gravimetric analysis, back-scattered electron imaging and mechanical strength) confirmed that the hydration reactions of the cement have been effectively delayed and suppressed due to the presence of isopropanol. A set of curves is obtained to identify the appropriate combination of i) the extent of water–isopropanol replacement and ii) time for achieving the targeted degree of hydration. This allows assessing material properties at low and/or desired degree of hydration with less time limitation during sample manipulation, achieving a better preserved and homogeneous microstructure. It has however to be noted that this method has limits with respect to direct moisture-transport related studies.